Barbara Kohl-Spiro's watercolor, Log Cabin Humble Beginnings, from 1984 comes from a series of paintings based on quilt designs. This example depicts the log cabin pattern. Influenced by Op Art of the 1960s, Kohl-Spiro's work fools the eye with pulsating diamond and square patterns made up of lines and dots of color that are not blended. The work distorts the viewer's perception of depth and form. The color palette is influenced by the Italian Memphis design style that was popular in the 1980s. While both Op Art and Memphis design have characteristic hard lines, Kohl-Spiro's painting emphasizes the handmade--much like a textile. Even the picture's frame is handmade. During the '80s, curators and critics were beginning to recognize the artistry and decorative nature of quilts. For Kohl-Spiro, the quilt represents a symbol of passing traditions from mother to daughter and the strength of familial relationships across generations. The artist signed this piece in the lower right margin with graphite. In addition, this painting is housed in a frame of the artist's design, painted with patterns of lavender, orange, maroon, teal, and purple. Good overall condition. Some minor abrasions to frame.

Image Size: 25 1/2" x 19 3/4"
Paper Size: 29 3/4" x 22"
Frame Size: 36 3/8" x 28 3/8"